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Preparing for a New Kitten

Preparing for a New Kitten

February 15, 2017

Have you recently decided to adopt a kitten? Congratulations! We probably don’t have to tell you that you are in for some super cute moments with your tiny ball of fur. We love watching kitties grow from adorable, playful babies into happy, healthy adult cats! To help you and your pint-sized pet get started out on the right paw, read on as a Lakeville, MN vet offers some advice on getting ready for your new kitten.

Shopping

Before you bring your little bundle of cute home, you’ll need to do some shopping. Little Fluffy will need food, treats, dishes, toys, and at least one comfy pet bed. We recommend getting your kitten some cat furniture, like an activity center or cat tower. You’ll also need a litterbox and litter. Avoid clay or clumping litters for now: these are fine for older cats, but can be dangerous for baby felines. If you have other pets, you’ll want to put your kitten’s things in a separate room at first, so your furry friends can get used to one another slowly. Ask your vet for specific recommendations.

Veterinary Appointments

A trip to the doctor’s is definitely in order. Your feline buddy will need to be microchipped and spayed or neutered. If this hasn’t been done yet, make an appointment ASAP. Little Fluffy will also need vaccinations and parasite control, as well as a thorough exam. While you’re there, get some advice on your kitty’s diet and care needs.

Kittyproofing

Kittens are basically adorable, furry bundles of mischief. Your tiny pet will want to investigate every inch of her new domain, and everything in it. Little Fluffy will also want to choose suitable playthings to practice her pouncing and jumping skills on. This can be dangerous! Keep your furball safe by putting all potentially-dangerous items in a secure place, well out of paws’ reach. Some of the things you’ll want to address include toxic plants; household cleaning agents; medicines; plastic bags and ties; anything with dangling threads or ropes; and any small or sharp objects. We recommend blocking off any kitten-sized holes, such as spaces behind or below cabinets and furniture. Keeping appliances, such as toilets and dryers, shut when not in use is also a good idea.